Thermal non-Newtonian EHL analysis of rib-roller end contact in tapered roller bearings

An EHL approach to the rib-roller end contact in tapered roller bearings has been achieved by taking into account the non-Newtonian behavior of lubricants and thermal effects and with full consideration of the peculiar geometrical and kinematic conditions. Two kinds of geometrical configurations of rib and roller end were investigated tapered rib/spherical roller end and spherical rib/spherical roller end. Optimal ratios of curvature radius of roller end to rib face were deduced. The film thickness, friction torque, lubricant temperature, and surface temperature at various speeds and loads were calculated.